The aim of this study was to determine whether grapevine decline is associated with a difference in soil microbial composition and activity.
BACKGROUND
Grapevine decline is a top concern in viticulture worldwide and is often associated with many biotic and abiotic factors. Grape trunk diseases and viruses are some of the most frequently identified causes of vine dieback. However, a decline is sometimes observed when no mineral deficiency or excess, or pathogenic causes can be identified. Soil enzymatic and microbial activities are relevant bio-indicators since they are known to influence vine health. Grapevine associated microbiota, linked to vine fitness, is known to be influenced by soil microbiota coming from the microbial pool inhabiting the vineyard.
METHODS
This work describes the microbial diversity and activity of four different vineyard plots of the Bordeaux region, selected due to the presence of localised declining areas unexplained yet by disease symptoms. Soils were sampled in declining areas and areas within the same plot showing no decline symptoms, during autumn and spring periods.
RESULTS
Significant differences in enzymatic activities, microbial biomass and activity were found among soils even if those soils presented quite similar physicochemical characteristics that could not explain these observed declines. The results of enzymatic assays distinguished patterns in autumn and spring periods with an overall greater enzymatic activity in soils from non-declining areas.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This work suggests that soils displaying decline symptoms present a dysbiosis in functionality and diversity which is linked to vine health.
REFERENCE
Darriaut, R., Martins, G., Dewasme, C., Mary, S., Darrieutort, G., Ballestra, P., Marguerit, E., Vivin, P., Ollat, N., Masneuf-Pomarède, I., & Lauvergeat, V. (2021). Grapevine decline is associated with difference in soil microbial composition and activity. OENO One, 55(3). https://doi.org/10.20870/oeno-one.2021.55.3.4626
Image credit: PG Goussard
This abstract is republished in its original form, with aim paragraph and headings inserted, as permitted by the following Creative Commons licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
